KB Home rolls out 'most environmentally ambitious home yet'

The ZeroHouse 2.0 may present a viable solution to California's water conservation issues.

KB Home unveiled its first ZeroHouse 2.0 in Los Angeles Wednesday, part of a new, larger series of homes designed to achieve net-zero energy status and zero freshwater irrigation use (by a family of four or more).

“Driven by an industry-leading commitment to sustainability, KB Home has succeeded in building our most water- and energy-efficient ZeroHouse 2.0 to date at Dawn Creek,” said Tom DiPrima, EVP, Southern California division. “With drought conditions currently affecting every corner of California, KB Home recognizes the importance of embracing innovations like the advanced greywater recycling system demonstrated in this ZeroHouse 2.0 that leverage the technology of the future to address the problems of today.”

The ZeroHouse 2.0 (or "Double ZeroHouse") can recycle drainwater on-site and reuse it for landscaping. The model in Los Angeles is estimated to be able to conserve 150,000 gallons of water per year, compared to a typical resale home (a reduction of about 70%).

On the other hand, the ZeroHouse may be primed to give homeowners free energy bills by producing as much energy as it consumes, though KB Home is hesitant to make any bold claims in that regard.

The existing model also features a water recycling dishwasher, a greywater heat recovery system, high-efficiency air ventilation and air purification systems, and a "fuel-forward" garage with options for an EV charger and a CNG fueling station.